"The unhappy derive comfort from the misfortunes of others"
- Aesop
About this Quote
This quote by Aesop speaks with the human propensity to take solace in the bad luck of others. It recommends that when we are feeling unhappy, we can discover some comfort in the truth that others are facing similar battles. This can be viewed as a kind of schadenfreude, or pleasure stemmed from the misfortune of others. It is a method of finding a silver lining in a tight spot, as it permits us to feel less alone in our suffering.
At the exact same time, this quote can also be viewed as a caution against taking too much enjoyment in the misfortunes of others. It is very important to remember that everyone is struggling in their own way, and that it is not our location to judge or get a kick out of the struggles of others. Rather, we must aim to be compassionate and understanding, and to offer support and convenience to those who are facing hard times.
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